With the demands of everyday life, our bodies need all the help they can get. Fortunately, many supplements can help boost our immune system and support our overall health and wellness.
From vitamin C and zinc to probiotics and elderberries, these supplements can give your body the boost it needs to stay healthy and fight any illnesses or diseases. We will look at supplements and how they can get your immune system back on track so you can go about your life confidently.
So, let’s dive in and explore the 12 best supplements to boost your immune system!
Related: IV Therapy Benefits – What to Know for Your Health
Our Picks for the 12 Best Supplements to Boost Your Immune System
Here are our picks for the 12 best supplements to help boost your immune system today.
1. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a well-known supplement that is crucial in supporting immune health. It helps boost the function of various immune cells, which helps protect against infection. Vitamin C is also necessary for cellular death, ensuring a healthy immune system by replacing old cells with new ones.
Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant and protects against damage caused by oxidative stress, which is associated with the buildup of harmful free radicals. Oxidative stress can negatively impact immune health and is linked to several diseases.
Studies show that supplementing with vitamin C can reduce the severity and duration of upper respiratory tract infections, including the common cold. For example, a comprehensive review of 29 studies in over 11,000 people revealed that regularly taking vitamin C supplements at an average dose of 1-2 grams per day reduced the duration of colds by 8% in adults and 14% in children.
The same review also showed that regularly taking vitamin C reduced common cold occurrences in physically active individuals, such as marathon runners and soldiers, by up to 50%.
Furthermore, high-dose intravenous vitamin C treatment has significantly improved symptoms in people with severe infections, including sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome. However, the role of vitamin C in these situations is still under investigation.
These findings suggest that vitamin C supplements can significantly impact immune health, especially for those who don’t consume enough of the vitamin in their diet. The recommended daily upper limit for vitamin C is 2,000 mg, with supplemental doses ranging from 250 to 1,000 mg.
Click Here to Find a Prime IV Hydration and Wellness Center Near You!
2. Medicinal Mushrooms
Medicinal mushrooms have a long history of being used to fight infection and disease. With over 270 species known to possess immune-enhancing properties, they are a valuable supplement to support your overall health. Cordyceps, lion’s mane, maitake, shiitake, reishi, and turkey tail have all been found to boost immunity.
Studies have shown that medicinal mushrooms can improve immune health and reduce symptoms of certain conditions, such as tuberculosis and asthma. For example, one study on mice with tuberculosis found cordyceps reduced bacterial load, enhanced immune response, and reduced inflammation compared to a placebo group.
In another randomized study on 79 adults, supplementing with cordyceps mycelium extract increased the activity of natural killer cells by 38%. Turkey’s tail has also been found to enhance immune response, particularly in people with certain types of cancer.
Many other medicinal mushrooms have been studied for their immunity benefits. They can be found in tinctures, teas, and supplement forms.
3. Zinc
Zinc plays a vital role in supporting your immune system’s health. It is involved in developing and communicating immune cells and the body’s inflammatory response.. Moreover, zinc acts as a barrier for your body by preventing the entry of foreign pathogens.
Unfortunately, zinc deficiency is a significant issue globally, affecting around 2 billion people, including many older adults. However, zinc deficiency is relatively rare in developed countries and North America.
Studies have shown that supplementing with zinc can help protect against respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold, and even shorten the duration of illness. For example, a recent study in hospitalized children with acute lower respiratory tract infections found that taking 30 mg of zinc daily reduced the overall time of the condition and hospital stay.
Zinc has antiviral properties and is considered safe for long-term use in healthy adults as long as the daily dose stays within the recommended limit of 40 mg of elemental zinc. Overdose, however, may interfere with copper absorption and increase your risk of infection.
Incorporating zinc-rich supplements and healthcare products like lozenges into your routine can give your immune system the boost it needs to fight off illness and disease.
4. Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays a critical role in maintaining the health and function of your immune system. This fat-soluble vitamin helps enhance the pathogen-fighting abilities of white blood cells called monocytes and macrophages. Also, it reduces inflammation to support a robust immune response.
Unfortunately, many people have Vitamin D deficiency, which can compromise their immune function. In addition, low Vitamin D levels have been linked to an increased risk of upper respiratory tract infections, including flu and asthma.
Studies indicate that supplementing with Vitamin D may boost the immune system and protect against respiratory infections. For example, in a 2019 review of 11,321 participants, supplementing with Vitamin D reduced the risk of respiratory infections in deficient and those with adequate levels.
Evidence suggests that Vitamin D supplementation may enhance the response to antiviral treatments for certain infections, such as hepatitis C and HIV.
For most people, supplementing with anywhere from 1,000 to 4,000 IU of daily Vitamin D is sufficient, depending on their blood levels. However, those with more severe deficiencies may require higher doses.
Due to its impact on the immune system, Vitamin D has gained significant attention in connection with COVID-19. In addition, studies have indicated that Vitamin D may help speed up recovery and reduce inflammation in the respiratory system.
5. Elderberry
Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra), a natural remedy used to treat infections, has been under investigation for its impact on immune health. Lab studies indicate that elderberry extract has powerful antibacterial and antiviral properties against pathogens that cause upper respiratory infections and influenza viruses.
Studies also suggest that elderberries can boost immune response and reduce the duration and severity of colds and viral infection symptoms. A review of 4 clinical trials with 180 participants showed that elderberry supplements significantly reduced symptoms caused by viral infections in the upper respiratory tract.
While elderberry has been touted for relieving symptoms of some infections and the flu, it also carries some risks. For example, some research suggests that excessive consumption of elderberries could increase cytokine production, potentially harming healthy cells.
A systematic review of elderberry concluded that in lab and human studies, elderberry showed antiviral effects against several strains of influenza A and B. Raw elderberries must be cooked to avoid any risk of nausea, vomiting, or cyanide toxicity. Therefore, elderberry supplements should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional. They are commonly sold in liquid or capsule form.
6. Ginger
People have used Ginger for centuries as a natural remedy to boost the immune system. Research suggests ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help enhance the immune response and protect against diseases.
Some studies indicate that ginger supplementation can reduce upper respiratory infections and relieve symptoms like cough, cold, and sore throat.
Ginger supplements are available in various forms, such as capsules, tea, and oil.
Related: Anti-Aging Therapy – How IV Therapy May Help
7. B Complex Vitamins
B Complex vitamins, including B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and B12, play important roles in maintaining a healthy immune system. These vitamins help to produce energy, create red blood cells, and produce neurotransmitters.
B6 and B12 help produce immune system cells and aid in producing antibodies. B9 helps regulate immune system function, while B2 and B3 help to reduce inflammation.
A B complex supplement can help ensure the body gets the recommended daily intake of these essential vitamins, promoting optimal immune health.
8. Iron
Iron is an essential mineral that helps the body produce hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen from the lungs throughout the body. Iron also supports the immune system by aiding the growth and activity of immune cells.
Iron deficiency, or anemia, can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections. Iron can be found in red meat, poultry, seafood, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals.
Iron supplements are also available, but it’s best to get iron from dietary sources.
9. Echinacea
Echinacea, or coneflower, is a plant native to North America that has been used for centuries as a medicinal remedy. It is believed to have immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties that can help alleviate cold and flu symptoms and boost overall health and well-being.
Numerous studies have been conducted on echinacea, which have shown it to effectively reduce the symptoms of upper respiratory infections and the duration of the illness in some cases.
Additionally, research has suggested that echinacea may be beneficial in treating certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, and may even help prevent certain types of cancer.
Echinacea is generally considered safe, but it should not be taken by pregnant women or those with autoimmune diseases.
10. Turmeric
Turmeric is a natural supplement that is becoming increasingly popular for boosting the immune system. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and fight free radicals and toxins that can weaken the immune system.
Turmeric is also a rich source of curcumin, which has an array of potential health benefits, including fighting off bacteria and viruses that can cause illness, reducing inflammation, and promoting a healthy immune system.
Additionally, research has shown that turmeric may help treat some autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
11. Garlic
Garlic is a widely used culinary ingredient that has many health benefits. The garlic bulb contains compounds such as allicin, which has antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains antioxidants that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
Studies have also shown that garlic can reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, garlic is believed to be beneficial for digestive health, as it has been used to treat diarrhea, indigestion, and intestinal worms.
Lastly, garlic is thought to have anti-cancer properties due to the presence of certain compounds.
12. Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms, commonly known as “good bacteria,” that are thought to provide numerous health benefits when consumed. Probiotics are generally found in yogurt and fermented foods and, at times, taken in supplement form. The benefits of probiotics include improved digestion and gut health, better immunity, and enhanced nutrient absorption.
Research has indicated that probiotics can help to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, which helps to prevent and treat digestive issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
Additionally, probiotics can help reduce inflammation in the gut, improving and protecting from digestive issues and other ailments like allergies.
The best way to ensure adequate levels of probiotics in the gut is to consume a healthy and balanced diet that includes yogurt and fermented foods.
When investing in a supplement, look for strains with a high CFU count and preferably a multistrain (multiple different strains). Most importantly, be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Click Here to Learn More About Prime IV Hydration & Wellness!
IV Hydration Therapy is an Excellent Way to Boost Your Immune System
If you’re looking for a convenient, effective way to get the essential nutrients your body needs, IV treatments from Prime IV Hydration and Wellness are a great solution. By delivering vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other supplements directly into the bloodstream, IV treatments ensure that your body gets the highest quality nutrients as soon as possible.
Unlike oral supplements, IV treatments do not have to wait to be processed through the digestive system before they can be absorbed. As a result, IV hydration treatments are an excellent option for those who need an immediate boost of energy or need to replenish lost nutrients quickly.
Additionally, IV treatments are adjustable, so you can choose the proper dosage and tailor your treatment to your specific needs. If you’re looking for an efficient way to supplement your diet, IV treatments from Prime IV Hydration and Wellness are a great choice.
Related: IV for Hangovers – Your New Favorite Hangover Cure!
